Media Matters: empowering teachers in Media and Information Literacy
ACT's Media Matters course will equip you with knowledge & practical ideas so that you can help your own students navigate today’s complex media world
Prepare Your Students for the Digital World
In an era dominated by social media, 24/7 news, and rapid information exchange, teaching students how to critically analyse media is more essential than ever. Media Matters, a comprehensive online course developed by expert educators from the Association for Citizenship Teaching, equips Citizenship teachers like you with the tools and knowledge to confidently teach media and information literacy.
This course is designed specifically for educators working in Citizenship but is valuable for anyone aiming to integrate media literacy into their teaching. With a focus on practical strategies, real-world examples, and interactive tasks, Media Matters will empower you to navigate today’s complex media landscape and guide your students to become informed, responsible media consumers.
Why Take This Course?
Media literacy is an essential part of a well-rounded education in today’s media-saturated world. Throughout this course, you’ll:
- Deepen your understanding of media landscapes and how to critically evaluate information.
- Learn how to teach your students about the challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation.
- Access interactive learning tools, including quizzes, flashcards, real-life case studies, and video tutorials.
- Develop your expertise in media and information literacy to help your students become responsible, critical thinkers
By the end of this course, you’ll emerge fully prepared to integrate media literacy into your classroom, ensuring your students are equipped to engage with media responsibly and effectively.
Course Highlights
- Interactive Quizzes
Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes designed to reinforce key learning points. - Real-World Examples
Explore relevant case studies and examples to see media literacy in action. - Multimedia Content
Engage with flashcards, video tutorials, and dynamic content that brings learning to life. - Practical Strategies
Receive tried-and-tested pedagogical techniques for teaching media literacy. - Misinformation & Disinformation
Tackle one of the biggest challenges in modern education: teaching students to spot and counter fake news and false information.
What You’ll Learn
Unit 1: Media Matters – An Introduction
- What is media and why is it important?
- Defining media and information literacy
- Media and Citizenship education
Unit 2: Information Neighbourhoods and Newsworthiness
- What makes news? Explore how journalists select stories and the role of public interest.
- Learn about different information “neighbourhoods” and how they shape what we see in the media.
Unit 3: Rights, Responsibilities, and the Free Press
- Dive into the role of media in a democracy and explore the balance between press freedom and regulation.
Unit 4: Social Media and Society
- Understand the influence of social media on young people and society.
- Learn about the impact of algorithms, echo chambers, and hashtag activism.
Unit 5: Misinformation, Disinformation, and Malinformation
- Develop strategies to teach students how to spot deepfakes, hoaxes, and fake news.
- Equip your students to combat false information in a rapidly changing digital environment.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for:
- Citizenship Teachers who want to incorporate media literacy into their curriculum.
- PSHE and Humanities Teachers looking to address the digital challenges of today’s world.
- Educators in other disciplines who use media as part of their teaching and want to ensure students can critically engage with media content.
Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to teaching media literacy, this course offers insights and practical tools for every level.
Meet Your Course Leaders
- Helen Blachford: Chair of Council for ACT, with over 20 years of teaching experience, Helen is passionate about equipping students with the skills to critically analyse media and use information to create positive change. She’ll guide you through the course, offering expert knowledge and practical advice.
- Bryden Joy: A dedicated Citizenship teacher, Bryden brings extensive classroom experience and a commitment to ensuring students make informed decisions about the media they consume. His insights throughout the course will deepen your understanding and teaching strategies.
Why Choose Media Matters?
- Expert-Led Course
This course is created by the Association for Citizenship Teaching, a leader in supporting Citizenship educators for over 20 years. - Tailored for Educators
Media Matters addresses the specific challenges and opportunities faced by Citizenship and PSHE teachers, offering content that can be immediately applied in the classroom. - Engage Students in Real Issues
Tackle today’s most pressing media challenges, including misinformation, disinformation, and the power of social media. Learn how to teach students to critically analyse the information they encounter every day.
Enrol Today! Introductory offer: 50% off (ends 31 October)
Enrol now and gain immediate access to interactive tasks, quizzes, and expert insights designed to empower both you and your students.
Let’s tackle today’s digital challenges together!